Minorities and Stroke

Minorities have higher stroke risks, stroke occurrence at an earlier age, and for some more severe strokes. Although certain risk factors for stroke, such as genetics or family history cannot be controlled, others such as high blood pressure or diabetes can go unrecognized. Knowing your risk factors for stroke and controlling them is the first step in preventing a stroke. Here is a closer look at stroke in different minority groups.

PEOPLE OF AFRICAN HERITAGE AND STROKEThe statistics are staggering—in fact, people of African heritage, black people - most Jamaicans, are more impacted by stroke than any other racial groups within the population. Black people are twice as likely to die from stroke as whites and their rate of first strokes is almost double that of whites.Strokes in this population tend to occur earlier in life. And survivors, of African heritage are more likely to become disabled and experience difficulties with daily living and activities.Why are people of African descent at higher risk?Not all of the reasons are clear why Caribbean people of African heritage have an increased risk of stroke. However, research points to the following risk factors as major reasons:

High blood pressure: The number one risk factor for stroke, and 1 in 3 black persons suffer from high blood pressure. They are also less likely to have it under control than their non-Hispanic Caucasian counterparts.

Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher stroke risk.

Sickle cell anemia: The most common genetic disorder amongst blacks. If sickle-shaped cells block a blood vessel to the brain, a stroke can result.

Smoking: Risk for stroke doubles when you smoke. If you stop smoking today, your stroke risk will immediately begin to decrease.

Obesity: Adopting a lower-sodium (salt), lower-fat diet and becoming more physically active may help lower blood pressure and risk for stroke. They are also much less likely to engage in active physical activity.

ASIANSIn general, Asians are less likely to die from a stroke. They tend to have lower rates of being overweight or obese and lower rates of high blood pressure than all other racial groups. They tend to lead healthier lifestyles, however, research shows that they are still 20 percent more likely to suffer a stroke than their Caucasian counterparts. HISPANICSThe Hispanic population has a different occurrence of stroke risk factors than their Caucasian counterparts. Hispanics are more likely to suffer a stroke at a younger age—average age of 67—compared to 80 for non-Hispanic Caucasians. Stroke and heart disease account for one in four deaths among Hispanic men and one in three deaths among Hispanic women.Why are Hispanics at higher risk?High blood pressure, higher rates in obesity (75% of Hispanic men and 72% of women are overweight or obese), and a growing number of diabetes cases (estimated 30% of adult Hispanics), are the leading reasons for increased risk for stroke in this population. Furthermore, Mexican American stroke survivors with atrial fibrillation have a higher risk of stroke recurrences and more severe strokes.Language barriers and lack of transportation are major reasons why the Hispanic population in English speaking countries is more likely to:

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Milka Clarke Stroke Brain Trauma Foundation is a charitable, not for profit non-governmental foundation, founded by the family of the late Mrs. Milka Clarke, to provide stroke prevention education, awareness, and support for stroke survivors, their families and caregivers in the parish of Westmoreland, Jamaica.

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